About Friedrich Schiller University Jena (FSU Jena)

Located in the heart of Germany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena (FSU Jena) is a leading hub for academic excellence, research innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With over 17,000 students and 10,000 employees, the university thrives under its three core research pillars: Light, Life, and Liberty.

FSU Jena maintains strong partnerships with renowned research institutes, innovative companies, and cultural organizations, creating a vibrant ecosystem for groundbreaking discoveries.

The Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse”

At the forefront of FSU Jena’s research is the Cluster of Excellence – Balance of the Microverse, which investigates microbial communities across oceans, groundwater, plants, and human hosts. This initiative identifies common traits in disturbed ecosystems and infectious diseases at the microbiome level, paving the way for sustainable, targeted interventions.

Doctoral training is offered through the Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC), which combines structured coursework with interdisciplinary research in state-of-the-art facilities.

PhD Position: Microbial Pathogens and Climate Change

Research Focus:
The doctoral researcher will join Dr. Amelia Barber’s research group to study how climate change influences the evolution, behavior, and infectivity of fungal pathogens. Many of these pathogens originate in natural environments before infecting humans.

The project will combine:

• Experimental approaches (e.g., environmental microcosms)
• Advanced bioinformatics & genomics
  to understand how rising temperatures and shifting ecosystems drive pathogen adaptation and the emergence of novel infectious threats.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent microbiology and molecular biology experiments.
• Analyze large datasets, generate publication-quality figures, and write scientific manuscripts.
• Present findings at local, national, and international conferences.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including computational biologists.
• Mentor BSc students and research assistants.
• Contribute to a collaborative and inclusive research culture.

Candidate Profile

Essential:

• Master’s degree (or near completion) in biological sciences, bioinformatics, microbiology, or related field.
• Strong motivation, curiosity, and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and spoken English skills.

Preferred (but not mandatory):

• Lab experience in microbiology or molecular biology.
• Skills in coding, statistics, or next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis.
• Experience in interdisciplinary research environments.

FSU Jena encourages applications even from candidates who do not meet every listed requirement.

What FSU Jena Offers

• Fully funded PhD position (TV-L E13 pay scale, part-time 65%).
• 3.5 years funding with possible extension.
• Comprehensive doctoral training through JSMC, including mentoring and soft skills workshops.
• Access to cutting-edge laboratories and computational resources.
• 30 vacation days annually + 2 extra days (Dec 24 & 31).
• Family-friendly policies, childcare support, and health programs.
• A vibrant, international research community in the City of Science – Jena.

Why Study Microbial Pathogens in the Context of Climate Change?

Climate change is transforming ecosystems, altering pathogen dynamics, and increasing the risk of emerging infectious diseases. Fungal pathogens, in particular, are adapting to warming conditions, potentially making them more capable of infecting humans.

This research will:

• Provide insights into pathogen evolution under climate stress.
• Contribute to global infectious disease preparedness.
• Support targeted intervention strategies for both public health and ecosystem restoration.

Life in Jena – Germany’s City of Science

Jena offers the perfect balance of academic focus and cultural vibrancy. The city hosts music festivals, museums, historic sites, and scenic landscapes, all while fostering strong research collaborations. Its central location provides easy access to major cities like Berlin, Leipzig, Dresden, and Munich.

How to Apply

Applications are open until August 31, 2025.
Submit your application through the FSU Jena Online Application Portal.

Required documents typically include:

• CV and academic transcripts
• Motivation letter
• References or recommendation letters

Tip for Applicants: Highlight your interdisciplinary skills, adaptability, and motivation to address global challenges at the intersection of microbiology and climate science.

Location: Agroscope, Nyon (future relocation to Posieux in 2026)

Start Date: 01 October 2025
Duration: 4 years (until 30.09.2029)
Affiliation: PhD School in Life Sciences, University of Geneva
Funding: Fully funded (100%)

PhD Research Focus: Molecular Microbiology & Yeast-Based Biocontrol

The PhD project centers on the biocontrol potential of the yeast Metschnikowia pulcherrima—a promising candidate in natural plant protection strategies. The research aims to unlock the molecular mechanisms behind its antifungal activity using state-of-the-art techniques in microbiology, genetics, and phytopathology.

You’ll be part of a forward-thinking team applying biotechnology to real-world challenges in sustainable agriculture and plant health.

Your Role & Responsibilities

As a PhD researcher, your tasks will include:

• Conducting fundamental and applied research in microbiology
• Performing advanced molecular techniques such as:
  • RNA sequencing (RNA-seq)
  • Transcriptomic analysis
  • CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing
  • Whole genome sequencing
  • Biocontrol bioassays
• Analyzing complex experimental datasets
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary scientific teams
• Writing a high-impact PhD thesis and publishing in peer-reviewed journals

Candidate Profile: Who Should Apply?

Ideal candidates should meet the following criteria:

• Master’s degree (MSc) in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline
• Solid hands-on lab experience in microbiological or molecular techniques
• Familiarity with tools like cloning, PCR, DNA sequencing
• Passion for applied research in sustainable agriculture and biocontrol
• Strong communication skills in English, with knowledge of Swiss national languages (French/German/Italian) being an advantage

Research Objectives

Key goals of this PhD project include:

• Exploring pulcherrimin metabolism in Metschnikowia pulcherrima
• Genetic and functional characterization of mutant strains
• Comparative analysis with the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The PhD will be supervised by Prof. Robbie Loewith at the University of Geneva, a leading expert in molecular biology and cellular signaling.

Why Choose Agroscope?

Agroscope is Switzerland’s national hub for agricultural and food research, working at the interface of science and society. As part of the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER), Agroscope is committed to innovation in:

• Sustainable crop protection
• Environmental conservation
• Healthy food systems

Note: Agroscope’s current location in Nyon will move to Posieux in 2026.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare a strong application highlighting:

• Motivation for pursuing a PhD in microbial biocontrol
• Relevant academic and laboratory experience
• Language skills and collaborative mindset

Deadline: Apply as early as possible. Starting date is 01 October 2025 or by mutual agreement.

Launch Your Scientific Career in Switzerland

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to impactful research at the intersection of microbiology, plant pathology, and sustainable agriculture. With full funding, expert supervision, and access to world-class research facilities, this PhD program will provide you with the tools and experience to become a leader in your field.